Category: package tours

  • Seal, Paper & Tea: The Art of Japanese Elegance in Yamanashi

    Seal, Paper & Tea: The Art of Japanese Elegance in Yamanashi

    3 in 1 Experience in Yamanashi Seal Carving, Washi Paper Making & Tea Ceremony

    Seal, Paper & Tea: The Art of Japanese Elegance in Yamanashi

    4 hours

    Easy

    This exclusive cultural experience invites you into the quiet world of Japanese craftsmanship. Under the attentive guidance of a master artisan, you will explore the philosophy and aesthetic balance behind kanji characters before selecting the one that best expresses your identity. Once the design is delicately brushed onto the stone, you will carve your own seal by hand, transforming a simple material into a deeply personal work of art.

    You can start this experience at the following places.
    Harada Shokodo

    〒409-3244 JP Nishiyatsushiro-gun 2089 Iwama, Ichikawamisato-cho,Yamanashi

    ① Handmade Japanese paper experience (1.5 hours)

    You will make washi paper together with artisans in Nishijima, a nearby washi-producing area.

    Compared to regular paper, Japanese washi paper has firmer fibers, so the vermilion is less likely to bleed and the print appears vivid.

    You can also print photos saved on your phone onto the finished washi paper. Why not try printing out a memorable photo?

    The experience of using pure mountain water in a quiet workshop surrounded by the mountains is a relaxing experience.

    ② Learn about history and culture (1 hour)

    After the handmade paper-making experience, head to Kamisuki Park and the Seal Museum .

    With President Harada as your guide, you can learn about the history and culture of washi paper and seals. (we provide the car for transportation. )

    At Kamisuki Park, you can learn about the history of washi paper through hands-on exhibits.
    In addition to having lunch, you can also purchase miscellaneous goods and various types of washi paper produced by Nishijima’s washi paper workshop at the souvenir shop.

    At the Seal Museum, you can learn about the history of seals that Ichikawa Misato Town has cultivated by looking at documents from that time.

    ③ Seal making experience (1.5 hours)

    Now it is time to carve your own seal.

    This is a special experience where you will be given one-on-one instruction from a skilled seal craftsman and will come into contact with the depths of seals and Kanji characters.

    You will choose the letters then the skilled craftsman will inscribe them with a brush, and then carve them by yourself using specialized tools.

    To enjoy the finished product, stamp it in vermilion on the Japanese paper you made earlier of the day.

    To conclude the experience, we will offer guest the tea ceremony in the Harada Shokodo tea room, enjoying matcha green tea and sweets.

    End the experience with Tea Ceremony

    After all the experiences, as a closing special event day,

    we offer you tea ceremony in the Japanese tea room.
    Please enjoy Japanese hospitality with matcha and Japanese sweets.

    description

    In addition to seal carving, the experience includes making traditional Japanese washi paper, an important element that complements seal artistry. The meaning of your chosen characters and the date of your visit will be printed on the washi paper you create, making it a meaningful keepsake. The experience concludes with a formal stamping ceremony using vermilion ink, followed by a peaceful Japanese tea ceremony, allowing you to reflect on the cultural traditions you have just explored.

    As a remembrance of your time in Yamanashi, you will receive your handcrafted seal presented with a refined pouch made from Fujiyoshida textile fabric, a region celebrated for its heritage weaving. Ink, an ink pad, and a stamping mat are also included, allowing you to continue this tradition wherever you go. Framed and displayed at home, your finished washi artwork becomes more than a souvenir—it becomes a timeless expression of identity, craftsmanship, and the quiet luxury of Japanese culture.

    Highlight

    After the workshop, guests may stroll around the nearby temples, including Konkai Kōmyō-ji Temple, located just in front of the workshop venue.
    This sacred Buddhist temple complex features traditional wooden halls, historic statues, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a peaceful stop to enjoy Kyoto’s atmosphere before or after your experience.

    please note

    Please note that this experience is conducted by a master artisan who speaks Japanese only. To ensure smooth communication, a translation application will be used throughout the session. The instructor has extensive experience hosting international guests in this manner, and the workshop proceeds comfortably and without difficulty

    What’s included?

    • Experience Fees (Seal Carving,Washi Making,Tea Ceremony)
    • Private Transportation (during the tour)
    • Customized Japanese Seal (You can take home after the experience!)
    • Japanese Paper with photo of your choice (You can take home after the experience!)
    • Japanese Seal Pouch

    Exclusions

    • Transportation From/To The Meeting Point

    more info

    Experience type

    workshop / tour

    Booking in advance

    Cut off: 1 week

    Duration

    4 Hours

    Live tour guide

    Difficulty

    Easy

    Know before you go

    Minimum age of participants is: 12

    Cancellation policy

    • We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 23 hours or less before the event
    • We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event
    • We will charge a cancellation fee of 30% if booking is cancelled 7 days or less before the event

    Live your adventure

    +81 3-6824-2055

    info@honeyj.co.jp

    Head Office
    Morimatsu Building 2F 3 Nyorai, Kita, Nagoya

    Tokyo Office
    Nissey Marunouchi Garden Tower 3F 1-1-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

    Government-Licensed Class 1 Travel Agency License No. 2149 JATA Regular Member

  • 5 Day Kansai Tour: Exploring the Culinary Heart of Japan

    5 Day Kansai Tour: Exploring the Culinary Heart of Japan

    Explore Kansai Highlights of Kyoto, Nara and Osaka!

    5 Day Kansai Tour: Exploring the Culinary Heart of Japan

    5 days

    Easy

    This 5-day Kansai tour takes you on a captivating journey through the cultural wonders of Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto.

    This 5-day Kansai tour takes you on a captivating journey through the cultural wonders of Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of Osaka, its bustling markets, and mouthwatering street food. Discover the ancient city of Nara, home to majestic temples and the iconic Great Buddha. Finally, explore the enchanting city of Kyoto, where traditional Japanese culture thrives amidst stunning temples and serene gardens. This tour offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the rich history, unique traditions, and breathtaking beauty of Kansai, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

    Day 1 : Shinsaibashi – Dotonbori

    Shinsaibashi is a bustling district, known for its vibrant shopping scene. At its heart lies Shinsaibashi-suji, the city’s most well known shopping area. Start your tour by getting familiar with the city’s famous shopping center.

    America-mura, also known as Ame-mura by the locals, is a vibrant retail and entertainment area near Shinsaibashi. It’s a hub of youth culture, featuring trendy vintage shops, cafes, bars, and nightclubs.

    Stretched along the Dotonbori Canal you will find the district of Dotonbori, famed for it’s eccentric and brightly illuminated signboards, the most famous one being the Glico Man sign. Originally installed in 1935 as advertisement for the Glico company, it has now become one of Osaka’s most well known and photographed sign.

    Make a quick stop at Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, which exhibits ukiyo-e woodblock prints published during the Edo Period. Try your hand at Japanese woodblock printing and print a postcard sized print.

    Standing out from the rest of the area is Hozenji Yokocho. This small stone-paved alley is lined with traditional shops and the red lanterns are lit up beautifully during the evening. You will find a temple with a moss covered statue.

    Day 3 : Nara

    Explore the traditional residential and warehouse buildings in Naramachi Town, many of them dating back to the Edo Period. Pass the Gangoji Temple, a Unesco World Heritage Site with a history dating back over 1300 years.

    Kofuku-ji is a renowned Buddhist temple with a rich history. Visit the temple and buy a Goshuincho Stamp Book. Learn how to pay respects and pray at the temple, then gather the temple’s stamp.

    Take a stroll through Isuien Garden. A picturesque and tranquil oasis, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese landscape design and historic architecture.

    Visit the impressive Todai-ji that houses a Great Buddha statue of 15 meters. This Temple, with its exquisite architectural design and massive scale, is unlike any other in the world.

    A historical park in Japan, Nara Park is also famous for the friendly free roaming deer. Purchase deer crackers from a vendor nearby and have a unique experience feeding the deer nearby.

    Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a captivating cultural site with its stunning vermilion buildings, suspended bronze lanterns, and serene forest surroundings. Walk along the main path that is lit up by the moss covered stone lanterns.

    Day 3 : Kuromon Market – Namba – Shinsekai

    Start your day early by exploring Osaka’s vibrant culinary scene. The streets are lined with hundreds of shops offering street food, fresh produce and other item goods.

    Just a few walking minutes from Namba Area you will find Ema-Den, a building shaped in a giant lion head. It’s said that the lion’s mout swallows evil spirits and brings good luck.

    For tech and pop culture enthusiasts, Den Den Town offers a vibrant experience, showcasing a wide array of electronics, anime, manga, and gaming stores.

    Discover Osaka’s iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, a symbol of the city’s resilience, and immerse yourself in the vibrant retro atmosphere of Shinsekai district.

    Founded in 593, Shitennoji is Japan’s oldest official temple. Since it was founded, the structures have burned down multiple times, but have been rebuilt exactly as they were originally designed.

    In the evening visit Abeno Harukas. The observatory on the 60th floor offers a 360-degree view of Osaka. During sundown, you can enjoy a stunning view of Osaka.

    Day 4 : Kyoto – East or West

    EAST KYOTO ITINERARY:

    Fushimi Inari Shrine

    Kiyomizu-Dera

    Hōkan-ji Temple

    Gion District

    Yasaka-Jinja Shrine 

    WEST KYOTO ITINERARY:

    Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tenryu-ji

    Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Togetsu-kyo Bridge

    Free time/ Souvenir shopping

    Day 5 : Osaka Castle – Tenma

    Visit one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, the Osaka castle. Learn about the history and significance of the castle and explore the surrounding park.Osaka

    Learn about the city’s history in the Osaka Museum of History.  The museum contains displays that illustrate Osaka’s development from ancient times to the present.

    Make a stop at Tenmangu Shrine, which was founded in the 10th century. If you are visiting Osaka in July, don’t miss Osaka’s biggest festival held in this shrine, the Tenjin Matsuri.

    Shop at Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street. This is the longest shopping street in Japan and spans 2.6km in total!

    Day 2 : Nara

    Explore the traditional residential and warehouse buildings in Naramachi Town, many of them dating back to the Edo Period. Pass the Gangoji Temple, a Unesco World Heritage Site with a history dating back over 1300 years.

    Kofuku-ji is a renowned Buddhist temple with a rich history. Visit the temple and buy a Goshuincho Stamp Book. Learn how to pay respects and pray at the temple, then gather the temple’s stamp.

    Take a stroll through Isuien Garden. A picturesque and tranquil oasis, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese landscape design and historic architecture.

    Visit the impressive Todai-ji that houses a Great Buddha statue of 15 meters. This Temple, with its exquisite architectural design and massive scale, is unlike any other in the world.

    A historical park in Japan, Nara Park is also famous for the friendly free roaming deer. Purchase deer crackers from a vendor nearby and have a unique experience feeding the deer nearby.

    Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a captivating cultural site with its stunning vermilion buildings, suspended bronze lanterns, and serene forest surroundings. Walk along the main path that is lit up by the moss covered stone lanterns.

    Day 3 : Osaka

    Visit one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, the Osaka castle. Learn about the history and significance of the castle and explore the surrounding park.

    Explore Kuromon Market, Osaka’s vibrant culinary scene. The streets are lined with hundreds of shops offering street food, fresh produce and other item goods.

    Visit Hozenji Yokocho. This small stone-paved alley is lined with traditional shops and the red lanterns are lit up beautifully during the evening. You will find a temple with a moss covered statue.
    Make your way to Shinsaibashi, a bustling district, known for its vibrant shopping scene. At its heart lies Shinsaibashi-suji, the city’s most well known shopping area. 

    Close to Shinsaibashi you will find America-mura, also known as Ame-mura to the locals. It is a vibrant retail and entertainment area and a hub of youth culture, featuring trendy vintage shops, cafes, bars, and nightclubs.

    Stretched along the Dotonbori Canal, walk through Dotonbori area, famed for it’s eccentric and brightly illuminated signboards, the most famous one being the Glico Man sign Originally installed in 1935 as advertisement for the Glico company, it has now become one of Osaka’s most well known and photographed sign. 

    Discover Osaka’s iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, a symbol of the city’s resilience, and immerse yourself in the vibrant retro atmosphere of Shinsekai district.

    In the evening visit Abeno Harukas. The observatory on the 60th floor offers a 360-degree view of Osaka. During sundown, you can enjoy a stunning view of Osaka.

    You can start this experience at the following places.

    Shinsaibashi Station

    〒542-0081 JP Osaka 3-chōme-12 Minamisenba, Chuo Ward

    description

    The costs of taking a Kyudo lesson are usually very high. In this class, all the necessary equipment for Kyudo is prepared for you. All you need is passion and comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely!

    In this beginner-friendly experience, learn the practice of Kyudo. This includes learning about the proper form, as well as the tools and techniques used. Explore the history of Kyudo and gain a better understanding of this traditional martial art.

    Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our expert instructor, who may not speak flawless English but more than makes up for it with their passion and dedication. We provide top-notch English materials about the captivating art of Kyudo, ensuring a delightful experience as you bond with our teacher through the universal language of gestures and shared enthusiasm for this unique Japanese tradition.

    Please ask our teacher if you have any questions or doubts. He is very friendly and good at teaching Kyudo!

    Please note that our teacher provides hands-on guidance as he shows how to correctly take the proper stance and hold the bow.

    Meet up Location

    からくり弓道体験場
    22-2 Mibuaiaichō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8812, Japan

    10 minutes on foot from JR Tambaguchi/Hankyu Omiya/Randen Shijo-Omiya station. If you come by taxi, please tell the taxi driver “Mibugawa-street, Takatsuji-street” instead of the address.

    What do I need to bring?

    • This is a walking tour, so please wear comfortable shoes suitable for extended walking.

    please note

    • If you would like to make changes to the itinerary, please let us know as soon as possible.
    • Depending on the day, certain attractions might be closed. If that is the case,  you will be informed and they will be switched out with other activities/attractions.
    • Please note that there will be a lot of walking during this tour. We ask customers to please wear comfortable shoes, fit for long walking distances.

    What’s included?

    • Guide fee
    • Admission fees/Transportation fees mentioned in itinerary

    Exclusions

    • Lunch fees
    • Admission fees/Transportation fees not included in the itinerary
    • Private Transportation
    • Shopping/ souvenir costs

    more info

    Experience type

    Multi day tour

    Booking in advance

    5 days

    Duration

    Cut off: 1 week

    Live tour guide

    Difficulty

    Easy

    Know before you go

    Minimum age of participants is: 6

    Cancellation policy

    • We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 23 hours or less before the event
    • We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 2 days or less before the event
    • We will charge a cancellation fee of 20% if booking is cancelled 7 days or less before the event

    Live your adventure

    +81 3-6824-2055

    info@honeyj.co.jp

    Head Office
    Morimatsu Building 2F 3 Nyorai, Kita, Nagoya

    Tokyo Office
    Nissey Marunouchi Garden Tower 3F 1-1-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

    Government-Licensed Class 1 Travel Agency License No. 2149 JATA Regular Member